I think that as others have pointed out, there are lots of other options other than going to a public shelter vs. "heading for the hills". Sheltering in place, going to friends or family outside the disaster area, etc, are all great options, and ones that most non-preparededness types would use.

Here's another reason to avoid having to go to a shelter for all you altruistic folks. By *not* going to the shelter, you are helping those who have no other resources other than a shelter. If you and your family don't go to the shelter, the shelter has one less person or family to have to deal with. That means that their limited supply of water, food, blankets, space, etc. can stretch a little further for the people who are there and have nothing else.

-Kuovonne